Stir in the BBQ sauce and mix until the beef is well-coated. Add salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, along with the crumbled bacon. Set the mixture aside.
Assemble the Casserole:
In a 9×13-inch casserole dish, evenly spread the frozen tater tots (or fresh potato cubes) at the bottom.
Spoon the beef and BBQ mixture over the tater tots, spreading it evenly to cover the potatoes.
Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and the mozzarella cheese, making sure it’s evenly distributed across the top.
Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If you’d like the cheese to be extra golden, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping an eye on it to avoid burning.
Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives and a few slices of pickles if desired for added flavor and crunch.
Tips for Serving and Storing
Serving Suggestions:
This casserole is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness.
For a fun twist, serve it with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping or drizzle some over the top for an added smoky kick.
If you’re looking to stretch the meal, serve it alongside cornbread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the BBQ sauce.
Storing Leftovers:
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or heat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Freezing:
This casserole freezes wonderfully! Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Variants
Vegetarian BBQ “Bacon” Cheeseburger Casserole:
For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for plant-based ground “beef” or lentils. You can also use vegetarian bacon or skip the bacon entirely for a lighter option.
Replace the cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan-friendly casserole.
BBQ Chicken Casserole:
For a twist on the classic, substitute the ground beef with cooked and shredded rotisserie chicken. Add a bit of smoked paprika to the sauce for an extra smoky flavor.
Spicy BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole:
If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the BBQ mixture. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for an added spicy kick.
Loaded BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole:
Make this dish even more decadent by adding a layer of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even jalapeños to the beef mixture before layering it over the tater tots.
FAQ
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes by dicing them into small cubes and sautéing them until crispy. You can also roast them in the oven with olive oil and seasoning before adding them to the casserole.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if the casserole is cold from the fridge.
Can I substitute the BBQ sauce?
Yes, feel free to use a homemade BBQ sauce or a different store-bought variety. If you prefer a tangy or spicy sauce, there are many BBQ sauce options available to customize the flavor to your taste.
Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Add in some cooked vegetables like corn, bell peppers, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to sauté any vegetables first so they don’t release excess moisture into the casserole.
Conclusion
This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole brings together all the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in an easy, one-pan dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or taking it to a potluck, this casserole will surely be a hit. It’s rich, savory, and packed with flavor—everything you love about a cheeseburger, but in casserole form. Don’t forget to guard it, because it’s likely to disappear quickly!
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